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Data entry assistant vs clerical/administrative assistant

The differences between data entry assistants and clerical/administrative assistants can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a data entry assistant and a clerical/administrative assistant. Additionally, a data entry assistant has an average salary of $33,251, which is higher than the $30,983 average annual salary of a clerical/administrative assistant.

The top three skills for a data entry assistant include company database, re-enter data and computer system. The most important skills for a clerical/administrative assistant are data entry, word processing, and payroll.

Data entry assistant vs clerical/administrative assistant overview

Data Entry AssistantClerical/Administrative Assistant
Yearly salary$33,251$30,983
Hourly rate$15.99$14.90
Growth rate-8%-8%
Number of jobs86,98956,261
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 35%
Average age4450
Years of experience22

What does a data entry assistant do?

A data entry assistant is responsible for performing data entry procedures, updating customer information, as well as logging business transactions on the company's database accurately and efficiently. Data entry assistants compile and sort documents, escalating incomplete information for verification, and following the business' procedures on disposing and eliminating unnecessary data. They also provide administrative and clerical support on office operations, including assisting visitors on their needs or directing them to the appropriate personnel for their concerns. A data entry assistant maintains a safe and secured database and immediately call for support in case of unauthorized access and system inconsistencies.

What does a clerical/administrative assistant do?

An administrative assistant, also known as a secretary or office clerk, is someone who carries out daily clerical and administrative tasks. Admin assistants do a variety of tasks such as answering phone calls, organizing files, maintaining contacts, schedule meetings and appointments, and many more. Their task can be extensive, depending on the needs of operations and higher management. They serve as a gatekeeper of the company, so strong verbal and written communication skills are a must. They should also exhibit great organizational skills and time management since they act as the resource of the company.

Data entry assistant vs clerical/administrative assistant salary

Data entry assistants and clerical/administrative assistants have different pay scales, as shown below.

Data Entry AssistantClerical/Administrative Assistant
Average salary$33,251$30,983
Salary rangeBetween $27,000 And $40,000Between $24,000 And $38,000
Highest paying CityBeaverton, ORSeattle, WA
Highest paying stateAlaskaWashington
Best paying companyALDI USAUniversity of California
Best paying industryManufacturingGovernment

Differences between data entry assistant and clerical/administrative assistant education

There are a few differences between a data entry assistant and a clerical/administrative assistant in terms of educational background:

Data Entry AssistantClerical/Administrative Assistant
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 35%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college-Western Carolina University

Data entry assistant vs clerical/administrative assistant demographics

Here are the differences between data entry assistants' and clerical/administrative assistants' demographics:

Data Entry AssistantClerical/Administrative Assistant
Average age4450
Gender ratioMale, 23.1% Female, 76.9%Male, 14.5% Female, 85.5%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 9.5% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 23.3% Asian, 8.9% White, 53.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6%Black or African American, 9.4% Unknown, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 16.4% Asian, 3.8% White, 65.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7%
LGBT Percentage5%6%

Differences between data entry assistant and clerical/administrative assistant duties and responsibilities

Data entry assistant example responsibilities.

  • Manage client s files and communicate confidential information to approve agencies and caregivers according to HIPAA regulations.
  • Design PowerPoint presentation for lobby and update as needed.
  • Prepare written materials for supervisor s use including spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, and reports.
  • Conduct customer and billing data entry for invoice and payment processing using QuickBooks financial management & account software.
  • Patrol outer perimeter to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows and gates.
  • Record monthly financial transactions in QuickBooks.
  • Show more

Clerical/administrative assistant example responsibilities.

  • Work with QuickBooks to manage store invoices and accounts.
  • Use EMR software to manage patient records and files; reinforce and uphold patient confidentiality as required by HIPAA.
  • Support medical doctors, manage sensitive and confidential records pertaining to high risk patients with emphasis on accuracy.
  • Check patients in and out, EMR, collect co-pays, answer phones, and take patients to exam rooms.
  • Assist with preparing and printing of exhibits, spreadsheets and PowerPoint slides as needed.
  • Maintain payroll and expense information.
  • Show more

Data entry assistant vs clerical/administrative assistant skills

Common data entry assistant skills
  • Company Database, 20%
  • Re-Enter Data, 11%
  • Computer System, 6%
  • HR, 5%
  • Payroll, 5%
  • Office Equipment, 4%
Common clerical/administrative assistant skills
  • Data Entry, 31%
  • Word Processing, 18%
  • Payroll, 14%
  • Customer Service, 7%
  • Scheduling Appointments, 4%
  • Clerical Support, 3%

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